DÄN K’E (OUR WAY)

Every CAFN Citizen has a responsibility to ensure that our ways and our traditional languages are carried forward to future generations. Know your culture and keep it alive!

Outsiders, including the United Nations, have referred to such responsibilities as rights (see United Nations Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous Peoples – Article 31, and others).

The Department of Language and Culture assists individuals and their families in continuing our ways. We do this by working with our Elders to document our history and traditions, by providing opportunities for our Citizens to learn more about their people and their ways, and by publicly celebrating our indigenous culture. In 2013 we opened the Da Kų Cultural Centre, a place where Citizens and the public at large can learn more about the Champagne and Aishihik people.

Our Final Agreement and other pieces of legislation contain provisions related to the management of our heritage. The Language, Culture and Heritage Department also engages with external parties and other governments on heritage matters.

Department staff work closely with Elders, and have the benefit of support and guidance from a departmental advisory committee.